n. [ F. détente, fr. détendre to unbend, relax; pref. dé- (L. dis- or de) + tendre to stretch. See Distend. ] (Mech.) That which locks or unlocks a movement; a catch, pawl, or dog; especially, in clockwork, the catch which locks and unlocks the wheelwork in striking. [ 1913 Webster ]
n. the easing of tensions or strained relations (especially between nations), as by agreement, negotiation, or tacit understandings. [ WordNet 1.5 +PJC ]
n. [ L. detentio: cf. F. détention. See Detain. ]
The archduke Philip . . . found himself in a sort of honorable detention at Henry's court. Hallam. [ 1913 Webster ]
a. [ L. pes, pedis, foot + tendere to stretch out: cf. L. tentim by degrees. ] Proceeding step by step; advancing cautiously. [ R. ] [ 1913 Webster ]
That pedetentous pace and pedetentous mind in which it behooves the wise and virtuous improver to walk. Sydney Smith. [ 1913 Webster ]